Holiday scammers who falsely claimed compensation for food poisoning could be jailed to prevent 'tsunami of false claims', judge says

Holiday scammers who falsely claimed compensation for food poisoning may be jailed to prevent a “tsunami of false claims,” a judge has today announced.

District Judge Jonathan Taffe has warned a couple who lied to a holiday company about being ill whilst in Turkey that they could face a custodial sentence as a deterrent against the “tsunami” of fictitious compensation claims.

Leon Roberts and Jade Muzoka from Derby made the claim against holiday and tour operator Thomson, now known as Tui. They said they had been bedridden with food poisoning, but suspicions arose when the duo uploaded 79 photos of their holiday on social media.

At an earlier hearing Roberts, 38, and mum-of-two Muzoka, 27, pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation in relation to their holiday in 2015.

Adjourning the case District Judge Taffe said it appeared the matter had "crossed" the custody threshold and he would be considering a jail sentence.

Leon Roberts tucks into a meal on holiday in TurkeyCredit:
Eugene Henderson

He added: "That is in the forefront of my mind, it would be flying in the face of common sense to think this is an isolated incident.

"This offence is outside the [sentencing] guidelines because it encourages a tsunami of false claims.

"All options are open at this stage and this is a serious case and it may be that a custodial sentence will follow to show the importance of your wrongdoing."

Jade Muzoka could now face jail alongside her former partnerCredit:
Eugene Henderson

Tim Hunter, representing Tui, told the judge: "Both enjoyed a holiday at the Cornelia Golf Resort and Spa in Turkey in July 2015 which passed without incident or complaint

"Apparently from social media it appears both had a very enjoyable time."

The couples claim came 10 months after returning from Turkey, filing for approximately £3,000 damages alleging they had suffered illness as well as providing a doctor’s report.